Highlights

In Bangkok, thousands have rallied to demand the resignation of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The protests were triggered by the leak of a controversial phone call with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen. In this call, Paetongtarn referred to Hun Sen as "uncle" and criticized a Thai military official. The incident has provoked public backlash and political unrest. A key member of her ruling coalition has parted ways, amplifying the political instability.

Sentiment Analysis

• The article conveys a highly tense and negative sentiment due to the widespread protests and political turmoil.
• Public discontent and accusations of unprofessionalism significantly influence the overall mood.
• There is a sense of urgency as the Constitutional Court takes up the petition regarding the PM's actions.

Article Text

The Thai capital of Bangkok has erupted into massive protests as thousands of citizens demand the resignation of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. This intense public reaction follows the leak of a phone conversation with Cambodia's former leader, Hun Sen. The protesters were particularly incensed by the PM’s casual reference to Hun Sen as "uncle" and her dismissive remarks about a Thai military commander. In the call, intended to discuss a border incident, Paetongtarn allegedly used it as a negotiation technique, which backfired hugely.

Soon after, a key ally within the coalition government opted to leave the partnership, further exacerbating the crisis. Paetongtarn has attempted to defuse the situation by apologizing for her remarks and stressing the importance of peaceful protest as a democratic right. Despite her efforts, Saturday’s demonstration, the largest since her party took office in 2023, saw citizens braving monsoon rains at Bangkok's Victory Monument while holding placards branding the PM an enemy.

Leading voices like protest leader Parnthep Pourpongpan have openly demanded the PM step down, indicating she’s the root of the issue. Veteran activist Seri Sawangmue, aged 70, traveled great distances to participate, asserting his aim to preserve Thailand’s sovereignty. His experiences with various political crises underpin his skepticism toward any positive outcome if the current leadership persists.

The uproar places Paetongtarn’s leadership, already under scrutiny, on even shakier ground. The call with Hun Sen, publicly shared by the Cambodian leader, fueled longstanding tensions between the neighboring countries, which trace back to disputes from more than a century ago. New border restrictions and boycotts on each other's imports exacerbate these strained relations.

Despite Paetongtarn's assurances of halting such direct communications in the future, skepticism remains prevalent among the Thai populace. Complicated by her father's history as a divisive former PM, Paetongtarn’s first year in office as PM carries heavy historical baggage, prompting many to reconsider the role of the Shinawatra family in modern Thai politics.

Key Insights Table